Discovering the Lerins Islands: A refined Mediterranean Retreat
About half a mile off the glamorous coast of Cannes on the French Riviera, the Lerins Islands offer an exclusive retreat for discerning travelers. This group of islands, comprising Île Sainte-Marguerite, Île Saint-Honorat, and two smaller islets, is renowned for its natural beauty and historical allure.
With pristine beaches, lush forests, and centuries-old monasteries, the Lerins Islands provide a sophisticated blend of relaxation and cultural exploration.
While simply exploring the crystal clear azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea from a yacht is wonderful, visiting the Lerins Islands will make the cruise more fulfilling.
Île Sainte-Marguerite
Île Sainte-Marguerite, the largest of the islands, exudes an air of tranquility. The island is home to Fort Royal, a historic site where the enigmatic Man in the Iron Mask was held. The fort's museum showcases artifacts from ancient shipwrecks, offering a glimpse into the island's storied past.
The island's diverse ecosystem is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Scenic trails lead to secluded coves and breathtaking viewpoints, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a private picnic.
Le Grand Jardin
Adding to the island's charm is Le Grand Jardin, the only private property on Île Sainte-Marguerite. Once owned by royalty, the three-and-a-half acre estate has 12 bedrooms spread across seven buildings.
The gardens are well maintained and provide a serene environment perfect for a private retreat. Guests can enjoy exclusive access to the property via weekly rentals.
Considered the most exclusive villa on the French Riviera, the rental offers a full concierge service, customized wellness treatments, and al-fresco dining with meals by some of the best chefs in the South of France. This makes it an ideal spot for luxury travelers seeking privacy.
Écomusee Sous-Marin (Underwater Eco-Museum)
For an underwater adventure, the submerged art installation by Jason deCaires Taylor (Écomusee Sous-Marin) off Île Sainte-Marguerite's coast is a must-visit. This unique museum features six large masks, each weighing about 10 tons, positioned three to four meters deep.
Designed to foster marine biodiversity, these sculptures create an artificial reef, making it a captivating site for snorkeling.
Île Saint-Honorat
A short boat ride from Île Sainte-Marguerite brings you to Île Saint-Honorat, an island rich in spiritual and historical significance.
But the tranquil Île Saint-Honorat is not just a spiritual retreat. It is also a haven for wine enthusiasts. The island is home to a Cistercian monastery where monks have produced wine for centuries.
Île Saint-Honorat Wine
The eight-hectare vineyard produces high-quality wines. The unique environment, influenced by the climate and the island's limestone soil, gives distinct characteristics to the highly sought wines.
The monks of Lérins produce various wines, using traditional methods that emphasize sustainability and respect for the environment. The wines are aged in oak barrels in the monastery's ancient cellars, where they develop complex flavors and aromas.
Visitors to Île Saint-Honorat can enjoy guided tours of the vineyard and wine cellars and tastings that offer a deep dive into the history and craftsmanship behind these wines. The island's serene setting and rich heritage make the wine-tasting experience unique and memorable.
Dining
Dining on the Lerins Islands is a delightful experience that complements the serene ambiance. Île Sainte-Marguerite has two main restaurants: L'Escale and La Guérite. L'Escale offers a casual yet outstanding dining experience, perfect for a relaxed lunch with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
La Guérite, on the other hand is a waterfront restaurant with a more sophisticated atmosphere and a beach club vibe. Known for its elegant setting and delicious Mediterranean cuisine by Chef Yiannis Kioroglou, the restaurant is popular for social gatherings.
Over on Île Saint-Honorat, the island's signature restaurant is La Tonnelle. This charming restaurant offers delicious meals with stunning views of the bay, making it a must-visit dining spot.
The restaurant focuses on fresh, local ingredients, providing a dining experience that perfectly complements the tranquil and spiritual ambiance of the island. Reservations are highly recommended, given its popularity, especially during the high season.
Getting There
The Lerins Islands are accessible by private yacht or ferry from Cannes, with services operating throughout the day. The boat ride offers spectacular views of the bay, setting the stage for a day of adventure and relaxation. Le Grand Jardin also has a helipad so guests at the villa can select a helicopter ride instead of a yacht.
Guests can opt for private guided tours or explore the islands at their leisure, with well-marked trails and informative signage enhancing the experience.
